Review Chevrolet Cruze hatchback

"The Cruze hatchback represents fantastic value for money and comes with a five-year warranty" Since its launch in the UK in 2008, the Chevrolet Cruze has represented a budget alternative to mainstream family cars. In 2011, the four-door saloon was joined by this more practical hatchback model, and with its combination of spacious and verstaile cabin, decent-sized boot and a punchy and efficient diesel engine, the Cruze is more appealing than ever. It has a load area of 413 litres with the seats in place, which expands to 883 litres with them folded flat. The distinctive dashboard is said to take cues from the firm's Corvette sports car and all models are generously equipped. Drive3.3 /5 Smooth diesel engine is well suited There are three engine options available for the Cruze – two petrols and one diesel. It's the latter that proves the most impressive, offering smooth, quiet progress thanks to its 161bhp and 360Nm. The petrol models do without that car's six-speed gearbox and aren’t as comfortable at motorway speeds as a result. There's not a lot of feedback from the overly light steering, and there isn't as much grip in corners as some of its competitors. Comfort3.0 /5 Seats are firm but comfortable The Cruze's dashboard is one of the most visually interesting in the class, and is claimed to be inspired by the firm's Corvette sports car. The suspension is soft and supple on the open road and the Cruze is well damped, although there is a considerable amount of body roll and at slow speeds it can feel quite firm. Although the seats are firm, they offer decent support on longer journeys and the driving position is easily adjustable. There's plenty of room front and rear as well, while the hatchback means the boot is big enough for a growing family. Reliability4.0 /5 Chevrolet quality is improving Chevrolet's Driver Power 2011 score was dragged down by owners of the firm's older Daewoo-based models, so the firm finished in last place. However, as new models such as the Cruze become more common, the firm's standing is expected to rise. Chevy is clearly confident in its abilities, as all of its models are backed by a five-year warranty. The Cruze hatchback hasn’t been crash tested by Euro NCAP, but the saloon achieved a five-star result - although pedestrian safety was a weak point. Practicality4.0 /5 Hatch is more versatile than the saloon The addition of a hatchback has a strange effect on the Cruze's carrying ability. Headroom improves by 11mm for passengers in the back, but boot space drops from 450 litres in the saloon to 413 litres. However, fold the 60/40 split rear bench completely and this improves to an impressive 883 litres. There's no false floor or clever cargo solutions though just simple tie-down points, and although there are plenty of cubbies up front, most are so small that they are only suitable for small items. Value for money4.2 /5 Well equipped compared to pricier rivals This is where the Chevrolet Cruze stands out from the competition, with all models getting an impressive level of standard equipment. Entry-level S versions come with electric front windows, remote central locking, a CD player and air- conditioning. Mid range LS models add alloy wheels, foglights and rear parking sensors, while the flagship LT is bursting with kit. The Cruze is better-looking than the saloon too, with neater proportions and short overhangs. Although Chevrolet has traditionally been seen as a budget maker in the UK, the introduction of the Camaro will surely see its public image improve. Running costs4.1 /5 Average fuel consumption, but five year warranty is reassuring Opt for the smooth and refined diesel engine, and you can enjoy up to 50.4mpg on the combined cycle. It's not class-leading, but is more impressive than the 42.8mpg achieved by the 1.6 and 1.8-litre petrol models. As with other Chevrolets, the Cruze benefits from a value for money pricing strategy, and equipment levels are generous. With a five-year warranty, which includes European breakdown cover, and fixed price servicing for three years, the Cruze should be painless to own.